Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Throughout History

Sexual orientation and gender identity are nothing new

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and related identities have been present in various forms throughout history. All cultures have included, with varying degrees of acceptance, individuals who practice same-sex relations as well as those whose gender, gender identity and gender expression challenge prevailing norms, and many cultures still do.

For the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia, this information on LGBT people through history is brought to you by the United Nations Free & Equal Campaign, IDAHOT Committee and the UCLA Burkle Center for International Relations.